Vintage Torquay Motto Ware Match Strike

A clever and handsome find from the markets of France, this Vintage Torquay Motto Ware Match Strike features a bold hand-painted sailboat design. Native to Torquay, Devon, England and crafted from local clay, up to two dozen local potteries in the region turned out novelty items in a distinctive style chiefly serving the tourist trade while also supplying high-end retailers such as Liberty of London.

Typically made from red clay and finished with high-gloss glazes, Motto Ware often features clever maxims or "mottos" expressed in a rural, Devon dialect. Some were produced in Cornish dialect, for "export" to, and sale in (not!) far-off Cornwall. Depicting a bold ship upon the seas at full sail, this charming match holder and striker is elevated upon a gently curving pedestal base cast with prominent ridges that provide the friction necessary to ignite a match.

Enjoy lighting a Strike Anywhere match with style and ease by simply striking a strike anywhere match along the unglazed ridged center. This practical and handsome find will serve you well, storing your matches in smart vintage fashion.

Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good vintage condition. Strike anywhere matches not included. 3.75" in diameter x 2.5"H.